Google Pixel Buds 2a — Summary, Pros/Cons, and Buying Links
The Pixel Buds 2a bring Active Noise Cancellation to Google’s midrange earbuds at a $129 MSRP. They offer comfortable fit, improved sound (spatial audio without head tracking), decent bass and hearing wellness tracking via the Pixel Buds app. Most Pixel features work best when paired with a Pixel phone.
Key specs (quick)
- Price: $129 (MSRP)
- ANC: Yes (improved over previous A-Series, not as strong as Pro)
- Battery: ~7–8 hrs with ANC on, ~10–12 hrs ANC off (varies by use)
- Charging: USB-C only (no wireless charging)
- Chip: Tensor A1 (same silicon family as Pro 2)
- Missing features vs Pro 2: Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, Conversation Detection, beamforming mics/voice accelerometer, onboard volume controls
What’s good
- Punchy, detailed sound for the price
- Comfortable, stable fit with new twist-to-adjust stabilizer
- ANC added at this price point
- Hearing Wellness tracking in the Pixel Buds app
Potential dealbreakers
- No wireless charging in the case
- Weaker voice-call microphones compared to Pro 2
- No onboard volume controls
- No Adaptive Audio or advanced AI-driven features available on Pro 2
Bottom line
The Pixel Buds 2a are a strong midrange pick for Pixel phone owners who want ANC and good sound for $129, but they trade away several premium features found on the Pixel Buds Pro 2. Decide whether the feature cuts are worth the ~$60 savings.
Buy / More info
- Amazon (search/results): https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Google+Pixel+Buds+2a&tag=f1rede-20
- Google Store product page: https://store.google.com/product/pixel_buds_2a?hl=en-US
Originally reported by Engadget — summary and buying links provided here. (Removed Engadget RSS link as requested.)